When is a game considered to have begun?

A game is considered to have begun when both players finish resolving their mulligans. This is a crucial point in the sequence of events that leads to the actual gameplay. The mulligan phase is an important step, allowing players to take a second chance at their opening hands if they feel the initial draw is unplayable. Once all players have completed their mulligans, they are ready to commence the game.

The act of shuffling decks is a preliminary activity that happens before the game itself starts. Drawing cards typically happens after the game has begun, specifically during the first player's turn. Sideboarding occurs in between games but is not part of the game itself; it is merely a preparatory action for proceeding with gameplay. Therefore, the completion of the mulligan process serves as the definitive marker that indicates the game is officially underway.